Misc. musings

Poem

2011-12-14T18:52:00.001-08:00

Christmas by Kara (2001)

Christmas!

jingle bell time

time for presents and fun

friends and family visiting

snow falling and good cheer

crowded stores

Birthday.

Jesus

Immanuel

born in a stable

REAL meaning of Christmas

came to Earth to save us all

God with us

Savior.

Mary

mother of Jesus

obedient virgin

born of David’s line

Blessed.

Joseph

earthly father of Jesus

son of David

obedient husband

Nazarene.

Jesus

born to save us

bore our sins on the cross

rose from the dead

returned to Heaven

Love.

Christian zombie killers handbook

2011-12-14T17:36:00.000-08:00

The Christian zombie killers handbook: slaying the living dead within by Jeff Kinley. I've had a hard time reading this book as zombie books just aren't my cup of tea but this is a different spin on the genre. This is a combination of fiction and non-fiction. You have a fiction story about zombies but in reality, it's about the sinful nature of man. There are chapters in the book that are specifically about religious stuff like faith, peer pressure, living for fleshly things vs Godly things, temptations, how to kill the zombie in you (salvation). Interspersed in the book are biblical references for the various topics discussed.
An example of the types of zombies that exist in the world: hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness and orgies... (pg.63/64) Galatians 5: 19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
This is a good book to counter all the blood and gore zombie books that teens like to read!

I got this book as part of the booksneeze.com book-review program

Bowling

2011-12-14T17:32:00.000-08:00

MSU Dawgs are headed to Nashville to play Wake Forest in the Music City Bowl on Dec 30th. While I have mixed feelings about our deserving to go bowling, this is a good opportunity for our guys to represent Ms and make some improvements for next season. Go Dawgs!!

Dawgs squeaked by this year

2011-11-29T21:22:00.001-08:00

Whew! Dawgs go .500 in football this year - not a good year at all! I'm very disappointed by the coaching or lack thereof. Coach Mullen should resign as coach and go to Penn State as the rumours are saying. We need someone who is not a friend or fan of Jackie Sherrill to lead our team, we need Coach Croom back! I believe we will be able to go bowling but I feel that we don't deserve to do so. Yes, the players played their best with what they were told to do but all it, bad job guys!

God's promise for the American patriot

2011-09-06T17:23:00.000-07:00

This book is by Dr Richard Lee and Jack Countryman, published by Thomas Nelson.
This is a quick glimpse into various portions of our nations history mixed with relevant Bible quotations. The book is divided into several sections: Thanksgiving proclamation, The Bible and American presidents, The Gettysburg Address, Faith of the founders, God of our fathers, and The battle hymn of the republic. A couple of examples of the sort of historical events found in each section: Thanksgiving proclamation gives the story of how Thanksgiving came to be as a day "we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country". I've never understood how people argue that the US wasn't founded on Christian principles when you have proclamations such as this made by George Washington. Another point under the Thanksgiving proclamation section is Praying for our nation and how at various times in our history, the president has called for a national day of prayer and how Truman established the annual day of prayer in 1952. This historical event is accompanied by 4 verses pertaining to prayer. In the section The Bible and American presidents you find a lesson called One man, one woman. In 1885 the Supreme Court recognized the traditional institution of marriage - husband and wife not 2 men/women marrying each other. There are 3 scripture references for this lesson.
All in all, this book is a quick read to learn more about this country's history and how it was founded upon Christian principles. Let us not forget!
received from Thomas Nelson's BookSneeze

Birth of the Twins

2011-06-10T18:22:00.000-07:00

It's gettin' hot in here....

2011-06-04T18:56:00.000-07:00

What's up with this weather?? It's just the first of June and already we've hit 100 a couple of times and spent other days in the upper 90's!! This isn't supposed to happen till July!! What does the rest of the summer have in store for us??

Rick and Bubba: We be big!

2011-04-17T14:42:00.000-07:00

Another entertaining book from the'2 sexiest fat-men alive'! This book gives you a brief bio from child-hood on up of Rick and Bubba. They give us insight as to how they first got interested in being in radio. You learn of their behind-the-scenes adventures and mishaps (leaving Citadel for Cox radio but still having a few weeks of contract with Citadel and getting cut off without warning). You'll hear stories about their families, politics, and their Christian beliefs. It is their Christian beliefs that keep them going everyday. It is God that gave them their radio platform, their chance to proclaim 'how great HE is' to thousands of listeners across the country.

Another book from Book-Sneeze - Thomas Nelson's book review bloggers program.

Love the outdoors

2011-03-20T18:22:00.000-07:00

You never know what you'll find!

Time again

2011-02-01T16:28:00.001-08:00

It's that time again...Steelers - Packers in the Super Bowl. GOOO Steelers!!!

Read and Share: Stories about Jesus - Thomas Nelson

2011-02-01T16:01:00.000-08:00

Written by Gwen Ellis and ill. by Steve Smallman. This board book is perfect for little ones to enjoy listening to Bible stories. They might even enjoy the illustrations but I think Steve Smallman needs a lot of work as far as the illustrations for this book is concerned. In my opinion, it took away from the book - I kept focusing on the ridiculous illustrations and not as much on the text. The illustrations would be ok except for 1 BIG thing and that's the noses he put on everyone's faces. I know, this is a minor thing but when you see it, you'll see what I mean about it being distracting. The noses are HUGE! Some look like clown noses, some look like carrots sticking out, not sure how to describe the others. Perhaps kids will enjoy it and this book is, however, for kids.
The text was well done - it gives a title for each short story, the Bible passage the story is from, and a very short story based on that passage that kids will understand. At the end of each story is a thought/question - example: at the end of Jesus brings a girl back to life is the thought: When we ask God for something, sometimes He says yes, and sometimes He says no. The most important thing is that He always hears us and does what is best for us.
Overall this is a good book for kids!
Received this book as part of the blogger program from booksneeze.com

Nelson's Biblical Cyclopedic Index - Thomas Nelson

2011-01-17T13:24:00.000-08:00

Book starts off with a how-to guide with examples and a list of all the words used in the Word Studies.
This index contains: concordance, topical index, and other study aids. There are 300 word studies that are highlighted with a grey box saying Word Study - it takes a word and studies it closer, giving scripture reference, definitions, and examples of word usage. One example is: Covenant, berith (ber-eeth). The "covenant," berith, in the OT is a noun that can describe a treaty or alliace between equals or heads of state. (much more info for this word)
There are 8000 subjects, names, places, things, concepts, events, doctrines all listed in alphabetical order, each with see also references and sub-categories. The scripture references are in Biblcal order. For example: Levites - descendants of Levi. A. History of: B. Duties of: C. Spiritual truths illustrated by: (various scriptures under each) See also Priest.
All in all, a handy little book to study with - like the cover says, Best Bible Subject Index Ever (well, maybe not ever).
Got this book as part of the Thomas Nelson Book-Sneeze Book Review Program

Start! The Bible for new believers - Booksneeze

2010-12-12T18:24:00.000-08:00

General editor Greg Laurie. This is a New King James version of the Bible for new believers or those wanting a 'refresher'. It starts off with a plan of salvation and then continues with secrets to spiritual success. This section goes in-depth as to the meaning of various Christian topics (secrets) such as why the Bible is important for spiritual growth and success (gives direction, gives spiritual food, gives us wisdom...) or that we need to have an active prayer life.
Then you get to the Bible itself and each book starts off with an introduction telling a bit about the book and its background. Most pages have know or grow section at the bottom that gives a bit more detail into certain verses that will help you learn and grow. Gen. 1:1 is a know section and starts off "In the beginning God." If you eliminate God, you have a big problem. And goes on to discuss this idea a bit further. Each of these sections also point you to other pages for more information on this idea. Intermingled on some of the pages is a small, grey box that says learn and this section points out a bit of factual info for you to learn such as Gen. 1:27-28 Man was created uniquely in the image of God, with a combination of that which is low and that which is high. And then it develops this idea further and points to another page for more info.
All in all, its like a study Bible geared toward leading new Christians to information that will help them grow spiritually.

Got my copy thru the Book-Sneeze program of Thomas Nelson.

#24

2010-10-17T13:06:00.000-07:00

It has to be said GOOOO DAWGS GOOO!!!!! Ranked #24 and 5-2!! Dare I say it?? We have a chance to be bowl bound this season!

Noxubee Refuge video I created

2010-10-12T18:17:00.000-07:00

Outlive your life - Max Lucado

2010-10-12T16:54:00.000-07:00

If you haven't already guessed, I love Max Lucado's books! I have found no reason to disagree with what he says and this book is no exception! This book is based on various portions of the book of Acts.
God can use anyone, anytime, anywhere to do great things! One example of this is His disciples: they started out as lowly fishermen and God called them to be Fishers of men, proclaiming Him to the peoples! "God doesn't call the qualified. He qualifies the called." He doesn't just use ministers to preach to others, He uses average people. You don't only preach by standing in front of a group reading some notes about a scripture passage. As St. Francis of Assisi said "Preach the gospel always and if necessary, use words." Also, remember that He doesn't give us what we deserve (punishment/eternity in Hell) but that He sent His Son to die for us on the cross. That alone should make us want to tell everyone about Him!
Remember to that no one can do everything but together, everyone can do something. That's what makes a church, not 1 person preaching but everyone together worshipping and praying and ministering to each other. Show compassion to everyone, in church and out. Take time to remember who is control of it all - NOT US!!!
Don't just know people by name, really know each other intimately. Change begins with a genuine look, not just a quick glance, but really look at someone. Seeing the surface isn't always truthful - you might have to dig a bit to find out what's really troubling someone or what they need/desire.
"Imitate the disciples - devour God's word and get to know Him and talk to Him". The courage to stand for Christ comes from knowing Him and thinking/trusting on His words. If you face adversity, PRAY WITHOUT CEASING! CLING TO HIS PROMISES! What was one of the last things Jesus did before dying on the cross? He prayed and begged that if it was the will of His Father, the cup of death would be taken from Him. Jesus PRAYED and so should we!
At the end of the book is a discussion and action guide prepared by David Drury. Each chapter of the guide includes discussion questions and ideas for action to make a difference.
I got the ebook free as part of the BookSneeze program - Thomas Nelson publishers

The King's Christmas list - Booksneeze Blogger Review

2010-10-12T16:13:00.000-07:00

King's Christmas list by Eldon Johnson and illustrated by Bonnie Leick. This kids book will help teach little ones about giving to others. The story starts off with Emma being invited to a Christmas celebration of the King's birthday and she decides she must take a gift with her. As the story progresses, she helps out people she meets along the way, such sharing her toys or her coat with strangers in need. In the end, she learns that Jesus wants us to give from our heart and not out of Do I have to?? Whatever we do to the least of these, we do unto Him! After the story, is a short blurb about giving and encouraging us to visit thekingsadventure.com to give gifts through various charties (such as World Vision).
I got this book free thru the Booksneeze Review program, Thomas Nelson Publishers.

Fun at the Noxubee Refuge

2010-09-30T19:56:00.001-07:00

Love going out to the Refuge and take pics - sometimes, I get some good ones! :-)

True Maroon

2010-09-26T14:46:00.000-07:00

Max Lucado - One hand, two hands

2010-09-15T18:12:00.000-07:00

Oh, the ways we can help with our hands! This book is illustrated by Gaby Hansen and in a way that young kids will enjoy with lots of bright colors. Lucado describes hands and ways in which kids use them: holding a cup, petting a pup. The fun things you can do like making a mud pie, picking flowers, dig in the dirt... Ways kids can help using their hands: wipe tears, give hugs, wash dishes with mommy, clean, pray - thank God for your hands. In the story, Lucado uses lots of rhyming words in ways that kids understand and can interact with. This is a good book for pre-school and younger, although those a bit older might enjoy it as well.
I got this book thru the booksneeze.com program of Thomas Nelson.

Fun with a camera

2010-09-10T21:23:00.000-07:00

Check out my pictures in my mobile me web gallery and tell me what you think!

Same kind of different as me

2010-08-17T19:04:00.001-07:00

This book is written by Ron Hall and Denver Moore.
Denver is a man who grew up virtually a slave in modern times. As a youngster, his family share-cropped for the Man. He soon tired of his life and decided to hop a train and find a better life for himself. What he found instead was life on the streets in Fort Worth, Tx. He was a hard man who others on the street feared/respected. Who knew he would make friends with a rich, white guy and his wife. And eventually he learned "you got to get the devil out the house 'fore you can clean it up!"
How do two men from opposite ends of the spectrum form a tight and long-lasting friendship? First and foremost, God! And a little prodding from Ron's wife, Debbie. Ron and Debbie served at a local mission to help the homeless and she told Ron that in a dream, God showed her a man who would make big changes and that the man was Denver Moore, a local homeless man who visited the mission. She encouraged Ron to get to know him and over time, they slowly built a close friendship.
Throughout this book, you can see threads woven by God leading them to each other. The central theme of the book is to show God is in control of everything and nothing just happens, He has a plan for it all.
You'll have to read the book to really see what events unfolded and how they all led to one conclusion: pain and love.
I got this book as part of Thomas Nelson's book- sneeze blogger (http://booksneeze.com)

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You can be everything God wants you to be

2010-05-03T19:17:00.000-07:00

Max Lucado writes a book showing how we can be everything God wants us to be. Everything comes from God - everything we do exhibits God. We should live so that He gets the credit. Honor God in everything you do!
Society tells us that we can be anything we want to be if we work hard enough but we can only truly be everything God wants us to be. Study yourself to find out what skills God gave you, those are like clues as to what you should be.
Romans 12: 3-8 Everyone has different skills and contributes to the whole - no one has the exact skills and capacity to do what you are best at.
Lucado uses an acronym to describe how to find out who you are/where you belong.
S strengths T topics O optimal conditions R relationships Y yes!
What are your strengths? What is your topic - your verbs, nouns, objects you enjoy working with. What are your optimal conditions - what motivates you? What sort of relationships do you have? When you can answer those questions, you get to the feeling of Yes! I know who I am and what God wants me to do!
I got this book thru the Thomas Nelson Book-Sneeze Program.

Winston Churchill - John Perry

2010-03-29T17:47:00.000-07:00

Published by Thomas Nelson, Winston Churchill is a bio of the great statesman.
I started out critizing this book for it's many editorial errors but ended up finding it a good read. I still find the lack of good editing disturbing as there are many errors and missing words but it's a good book when you overlook them.
I had not read much on Churchill's early years, just his war years, and find it interesting to see how much of a leader and showman he was as a youngster. He was not a good student unless it was a subject that interested him, such as horse riding. He also loved attention and used his family's connections to keep himself at the center of action as much as possible. A quote from the book that demonstrates this is when Prime Minister Herbert Asquith remarked that Churchill "would make a drum out of the skin of his own mother in order to sound out his praises".
Throughout the book, we can see Churchill struggle with religious beliefs and how he viewed the hand of God in the events of his life. His nanny, Elizabeth Everest or Woomany, as he called her, was the driving force behind much of his religious beliefs. She was the one that took him and his brother to church as often as possible and taught them her views on religion. Her viewpoint (as discussed on pg. 9) was Low church and anti-Catholic. One example of his wrestling with what he really believed in - at the age of 21, he was pondering what rules man's life. Was it luck, fortune, individual decisions? He didn't see it as Christianity or any religion but he sensed something was there. (pg. 43) Another interesting comparison of Churchill's beliefs - on pg. 112 he's speaking of an accident that occured to him while in the US before WWII and says "Nature is merciful and does not try her children, man or beast, beyond their compass. It is only where the cruelty of man intervenes that hellish torments appear." That has some similarity to I Cor. 10:13 "No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it." (ESV) This is an example of him knowing something is there but not quite sure what to call it, so he calls it nature but the Bible calls it God but you can see the similarity between the two statements. Overall, he was a very religious man in the English sense. He knew his Bible well and quoted it often but generally quotes a God that helps those who helps themselves (pg.135)
Throughout the book, no matter how much Churchill show-boated, you can see he's a leadership genius and was perfectly suited for the task as Prime Minister of England during WWII. There is more I could say about the book, but if I continue, I may as well write a book myself. :-) I'll end with his personal motto: KBO (keep buggering on).
I got this book thru the Thomas Nelson Book-Sneeze Program.

Super Bowl

2010-02-06T12:14:00.000-08:00

Who dat? Who are you pulling for? I have to root for the Saints - its their first trip to the Big Dance and I think they'll win the game! Normally, I'm a Steelers fan but between the Colts and Saints...Geaux Saints!!

Thomas Nelson Book Review Blogger now Booksneeze

2010-01-12T16:33:00.000-08:00

Still not sure what I think about the name change but I do enjoy being part of this program so they still get my support!

From peanuts to pressbox - Thomas Nelson

2009-12-30T17:49:00.001-08:00

From peanuts to the pressbox: insider sports stories from a life behind the mic written by Eli Gold, voice of the Alabama Crimson Tide. This book describes how Gold got started in sports broadcasting. If you love sports, this is the book for you. From basketball to football, hockey to NASCAR, Eli Gold has broadcast them all and shares many interesting stories about his years behind the mic!
As a young boy, he loved sports and as many boys did, would go to bed listening to a sports broadcast. By the time he was in high school, he had decided to become a sports broadcaster and started skipping school in order to educate himself on this career choice. He visited radio stations and listened to their announcers, he'd get as close as he could to the press box during games so that he could hear how it was done. Eventually, he got a job at The Garden selling peanuts and would spend more time watching games or the broadcasters then selling peanuts.
Throughout this book, Gold mentions various people who helped him out or who he met and remains friends with. Names such as Bob Costas, Marv Albert, Red Barber, Bob Wolff, Howard Cosell, John Brophy, Kenny Stabler, among many others. Knowing so many and so varied a group of people helped him when he hosted sports talk shows, he could interview a lot of well-known sports personalities.
Eli Gold is now best known as the voice of Alabama Crimson Tide - roll tide!
Thomas Nelson book-review blogger - http://brb.thomasnelson.com/
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

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Good ending

2009-11-28T16:13:00.001-08:00

Dawgs end their season with a 41-27 win over old miss! Go Dawgs and welcome home Egg!!

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Football Saturday blues

2009-11-21T18:27:00.001-08:00

I cannot believe the SEC...you never know what's going to happen. Today, LSU got beat by old miss - can't believe it! And Arkansas has improved this season and beat MSU 42-21. Alabama and Florida played non-conf games and won with ease. Georgia is beating KY right now and TN is up on Vandy and trying to become bowl eligible.
Hope the Dawgs can beat old miss in the annual egg bowl next week - Go Dawgs!!

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The Jesus Book by Stephen Elkins

2009-11-01T18:21:00.000-08:00

The Jesus Book is published by Thomas Nelson, cr 2009. It is illustrated with bright colors, perfect for little kids. It includes a cd with 30 kid-pleasing songs on it. The book is divided into categories: who Jesus is, what Jesus did, what Jesus taught, when it happened, where it happened, why it happened, and how it happened. It's a good book for pre-school age kids. Each story is short and very simplified and includes the scripture reference. It is very well done and the stories are the perfect length for short attention spans.
TN book review blogger

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What a game!

2009-10-25T15:42:00.000-07:00

Go Dawgs! I thought MSU played pretty well against top ranked Fla Gators but not well enough to keep our win streak in Starkville alive. MSU had 2 interceptions returned for tds - both by #13 Jonathan Banks. Banks picked 1 in the end zone and returned it 100 yards for a td! This sent the Dawgs in the locker room at halftime down 13-10. However, some bad calls by the refs and the Gators win 29-19. All in all, a good game! Up next, Ky wildcats - Go Dawgs!!

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Finally! A BullDawg Win!

2009-10-17T12:41:00.001-07:00

After suffering several loses, the Dawgs have played a good game against Middle Tenn. No turnovers but 4 interceptions by defense have helped the Dawgs win on the road! Win game 27-6. Go Dawgs!!

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Sports site

2009-10-04T12:13:00.001-07:00

View tkdgirlms on www.fanbase.com

Oh my! Football goodness...

2009-09-26T16:23:00.000-07:00

First we beat JSU! Next we are beaten soundly by Auburn. Then we beat Vandy! And today....oh my! A very good game against LSU and very close to a win! I'm soooo tired still and its been nearly 3 hours since the end of the game. Haven't seen such a good game in a very long time! Stats wise, we beat LSU but in the end, its only the score that matters. Up next, Ga Tech - GO DAWGS GO!!!

Fearless

2009-09-07T20:42:00.001-07:00

Max Lucado - Fearless (Thomas Nelson)

2009-09-07T20:04:00.000-07:00

Max Lucado has done it again! I love his books and this is no exception! As the cover says, imagine your life without fear. This book is 180 pg plus a discussion guide with several lessons to help you better understand the book. To better help you understand different concepts, Lucado uses scripture to illustrate his point and he does so with several different translations to make it easier to understand. Every chapter starts with a Bible verse(s) that illustrate what the chapter is about. Each chapter is short and makes it easy to read a couple chapters here and there - the whole book is a quick read!

Why are you afraid, O ye of little faith? (Matthew 8:26) I enjoy this quote from the book - "It's not the absence of storms that sets us apart. It's whom we discover in the storm: an unstirred Christ".

Lucado has listed 8 worry stoppers: Pray first, Easy does it (slow down), Act on it, Compile a worry list (did they actually happen??), Evaluate your worry categories, Focus on today, Unleash a worry army, Let God be enough. These worry stoppers spell out what we should be instead of fearful - PEACEFUL! Jesus is the ultimate example of how to deal with fears. When he faced the cross, he was anxious. What did He do? He didn't run and hide...He prayed and asked if it were possible, remove this cup from me but not my will but thine. We should pray without ceasing!

Fearless
Thomas Nelson Book Review Blogger

Football is upon us!

2009-09-07T19:24:00.000-07:00

The MSU BullDawgs won their season opener against Jackson State University 45-7. My opinion, however, is that this won't be the winning season that all hope for - I could be wrong but still.... I saw nothing in that game that sparked hope. A team like JSU is not in our league and yet we went into the locker room at half time 7-0. We should have gone to the locker room 45-0. Don't get me wrong, JSU rocked the house at half time with their band performance but they just aren't in the same football league as us. Well, we'll see what happens this week when we go to Auburn and take on the Tigers. GO DAWGS!!!

Its Football time!!

2009-08-29T10:53:00.000-07:00

Go Dawgs!! First up for the Dawgs is Jackson State from Ms. This will be the first game for new head coach Dan Mullen and the spread offense. Be sure you wear Maroon for the first game and let's Go BullDawgs!!!

Thomas Nelson - Rick and Bubba's guide to the almost nearly perfect marriage

2009-08-06T10:20:00.000-07:00

As usual, Rick and Bubba have added much humor to their current subject, marriage. They share many stories from their married lives. Stories such as having a date night and trying to get a hotel room in the town they live in only to have everyone recognize them from the show. Or attending a Presidential speech with the wives and not hearing much of the speech due to focusing on their wives. Or when Rick rented a van to take the family on vacation and Sherri ran it into a wall at the grocery store, thus giving him the best vacation ever because he could hold the leverage of the van over her head. Lest you think the guys can't be serious, they can. They also talk about how marriage needs respect, communication, and unconditional love to last and that the only true guide for a perfect marriage is the Bible. They also discuss ignoring those who try to hurt your marriage by talking bad about your spouse, don't join in with them and start gossiping or your marriage may end up torn apart. As Rick says towards the end "Surviving each challenge that life brings and getting through it together", that's what marriage is all about.
In typical Rick and Bubba fashion, they can't end on a serious note and thus have included, the Book of blame. A teaser - If you hit a pothole in the road, it's your husbands fault. He should have warned you about it...on the cell phone...from his office. Want to know more? You'll just have to read the book yourself!
Book info

Thomas Nelson - The I believe bunny

2009-07-04T13:04:00.000-07:00

The I believe bunny is written by Tish Rabe and illustrated by Frank Endersby. This book is very well written and is a picture book that young 'readers' will enjoy. The illustrations are all in color. The story is about a bunny who in helping other animals, learns a lesson about prayer and faith in God's love. He finds that nothing you try is impossible with the help of God, even for little bunnies. The opening page of the book quotes the verse: I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. Phil. 4:13
Thomas Nelson book info

It happened in Italy - Thomas Nelson books

2009-06-20T11:05:00.000-07:00

All I can say about the book It happened in Italy by Elizabeth Bettina is WoW! I'm a WWII buff and this is one of those stories that no one has ever heard of until recently. Jewish concentration (detainment) camps in Italy during WWII and they have been described as a picnic in comparison to German camps.
The books starts off with Jimmy Gentry looking a photos of the camps. He is one of the American soldiers that liberated Dachau. "The first thing I notice about these people is that they're not wearing rags of striped clothes; the clothes these people are wearing are nice, like clothes the men wore back home in Franklin at the time. They're well dressed - jackets, ties. Not what I saw in Dachau, no ma'am. These people are fleshy, not like the walking dead I saw in Dachau. They look well-kept. Nothing like the ones I saw in Germany - with those eyes - people with haunting eyes." And thus starts the story of camps in Italy and the Italians who helped the Jews.
In Italy, most Italians believed Amare gli altri come te stesso - love thy neighbor as thyself. Most Italians hindered the Nazis in Italy and helped the Jews because they saw them as humans just like themselves. Appoxamately 75-80% of the Jewish population in Europe died but compare that to 75-80% of Jews living in Italy, survived the war.
This book documents the stories of 12 survivors but thru it, many more stories have surfaced (see www.elizabethbettina.com). Few people outside the remote areas of Italy where the camps were located, knew such camps existed. In these camps, the Jews were able to worship, have visits from family members who were in other places, wear their own clothes and not have to wear the star of David. The main requirements placed on them was to check in each day at the police station, not leave the village, they couldn't own land, couldn't officially work their profession (ie: doctor). An attempt was made to reunite families living in seperate camps - something unheard of in any German camp!
In 1943, Italy broke rank with Germany and joined the Allies and that is when the true problems for Jews in Italy began. The Jews in German occupied Northern and Central Italy were rounded up and deported to German camps - 1259 in Rome alone. However, the numbers could have been greater but the police who were given the orders to round them up, often ignored those orders, in turn warning the Jews to leave the area to avoid capture.
The stories of the survivors all have a theme in common: if it weren't for the Italians, I wouldn't be alive today! They expressed their gratitude for Italians constantly and many of them were able to return to Italy with Elizabeth to visit the places they once lived. Several were even able to meet with the Pope!
In the book, there are numerous photos of the survivors as they were then and as they are now as well as copies of some of their documentation that has survived the years. There is plenty more I could say but eventually, I would spoil the book for you so I will conclude.
Thomas Nelson book info

Book Review – 100 Bible stories 100 Bible songs

2009-06-04T17:09:00.001-07:00

This is my first book review for Thomas Nelson Books. I chose to review the kids book – 100 Bible stories 100 Bible songs. It is created by Stephen Elkins and illustrated by Tim O'Connor. The book is hard-cover but has a soft cover feel like a lot of kids books have. The book includes 2 cds that contain 100 songs and each song goes with a story in the book. The book is brightly colored and will catch the attention of any child. Each story (or Bible summary) is short and is good for short attention spans. Under the title of each story, is the title of the song that goes along with it so that you could listen to the song along with reading the story. It also gives the scripture reference that the story is from so that you can easily find it and read the whole story from the Bible. The book and songs are separated into Old and New Testament making it easy to pick which one you want to read/listen with your child.

The stories in the book are very simplistic and good for toddler age. I do, however, think they are too simplistic and tend to not complete a story/illustration fully. An example of this is in the story of Saul. The story goes on to say that "Jesus is the Son of God. People who believe this are called Christians." It says in James 2:19 – "You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that and shudder." (NIV) Obviously, demons aren't Christians, so I think the simplistic nature of the book doesn't fully allow complete definitions/thoughts/ideas to be taught to a child. I think this is where the story's scripture references (and parental knowledge of the Bible) will come in handy in "Training up a child in the way that he should go."

If you want your child to learn about the 10 commandments, don't look to this book. It tells briefly how the commandments came about but it doesn't list the commandments at all. Again, the scripture reference comes in handy.

I didn't run across glaring inaccuracies in the book EXCEPT Moses. In the story about the promised land, it says that Moses went up to Mount Nebo and was happy as the Israelites entered the promised land. However, this is NOT biblically accurate. The scripture reference for this story is Deuteronomy 34 and in this chapter, it says Moses went up to Mount Nebo and died and God buried him there. In verse 8 it says, "The Israelites grieved for Moses in the plains of Moab thirty days until the time of weeping and mourning was over." (NIV) If you continue reading into Joshua 1 verses 1 and 2 it says, "After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son on Nun, Moses' aide: Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them" (NIV)

I have just 1 more thing to point out. Don't expect that this book will mesh exactly with how you interpret scripture. Different denominations of churches interpret things in different ways. An example of this is baptism. Two statements made in the book are: "Baptism shows the world that we love Jesus" and "When I am baptized, God will be pleased". I won't get into a theological discussion on this except to say, I don't agree with those statements but no book will be able to cater to all beliefs.

Overall, this is a good introduction to the Bible for kids but don't let it be the only source for teaching your child about God. Make use of the scripture references listed and read the whole passage to your child.

Book info at Thomas Nelson

Thomas Nelson

2009-06-02T10:23:00.001-07:00

Book Reviewer

2009-05-28T17:10:00.000-07:00

So I signed up yesterday to be a book reviewer for Thomas Nelson. I think this will be fun! So watch my blog for reviews of various books. Up first is a children's book 100 Bible stories, 100 Bible songs.

Computer frustrations

2009-05-08T20:30:00.001-07:00

I've been trying all night to get Ubuntu Linux to work on my older PC. It has installed but it turns out, my bios is a year to old for it to work. So, I've never spent a couple of hours trying to download an update for the bios and I'm getting frustrated. My burner won't recognize any cd I put in it to burn a disk with the bios update. ARGH!!!

We are the champions of the world....

2009-03-17T20:23:00.001-07:00

Well, maybe not the world but we are the champions of the SEC in men's basketball! GO DAWGS GO!!!

Can you believe it?? Snow in Ms!!

2009-03-01T15:06:00.000-08:00

It didn't last long but it was enough to enjoy it!

Great outdoors

2009-02-07T16:10:00.000-08:00

The weather today was absolutely wonderful and I had a great urge to spend it outdoors. I went out to the Refuge and wandered around for about an hour or so and took more pictures to add to my collection of pics from out there. Here's Bluff Lake as the sun is starting to go down.

YES!!!!

2009-02-04T11:18:00.000-08:00

Go Steelers!!!! Good game Cards!!!

Bowl

2009-01-19T08:47:00.000-08:00

Goooo Steelers! I'm glad to see that they are in the Super Bowl again but can't believe the matchup with the Cardinals! That will be a game to see!

Merry Christmas!!

2008-12-20T11:19:00.000-08:00

Jesus is the Reason

Big Moon

2008-12-12T16:21:00.000-08:00

Took a few pics of the moon tonite and its being used as part of a slide show accompanying an online article. You can always tell which pics are mine as I like having the date show. Here's the link: Moon

New things

2008-12-12T09:42:00.000-08:00

We have a new coach here at MSU - Dan Mullen, offensive coordinator at Florida Gators has been named the 32nd coach of MSU. I'm still upset that Croom was forced out but I think Mullen will be good for us - time will only tell.
Bama is no longer #1 in the nation - they lost to the Fla Gators in the SEC championship so the Gators are playing in the national championship and Bama in the Sugar bowl.

Sadness

2008-12-01T12:10:00.000-08:00

First off, we lost...oh wait, that's right...we got creamed by old miss 45-0 this year! I think the Dawgs ate too much food on Thanksgiving and just couldn't play. Sadly, Brandon McRae was injured and had to have surgery due to a broken tibia.
Secondly, we lost our coach. I can't believe that Croom threw in the towel so soon, we just had our first season off probation last year as well as his first real group of his players. Yeah, we've had a rough season but coaches can only do so much, its the players that miss plays or catches not the coaches. I hope they find a coach that's as good as he is about keeping things clean and encouraging more educational values and such. Go DAWGS!!!
What happened to LSU?? They got beat by Arkansas, the team we beat the previous week?? What's up with that??
Oh, how about ROLL TIDE! Bama remains #1 in the nation and undefeated! Next up for them is the SEC championship against Fla.

Hallelujah!!

2008-11-23T10:12:00.000-08:00

We finally beat Arkansas!! GO DAWGS!!! They've beat us the last 9 years in a row but the streak ended yesterday with the end result 31-28. Arkansas threatened to send it into overtime - with less then a minute to go, they scored a TD and then kicked an on-side kick and actually recovered it. They moved the ball down to within field goal range and with 4 seconds left on the clock, kicked and MISSED and field goal. It would have sent the game into OT but thankfully, they missed. It was pretty cold outside yesterday and as they set up for the field goal, I thought back to another Arkansas game that went into OT and it was sleeting out at that point. Thankfully it wasn't cold enough to sleet but it felt like it! I was impressed that our fans actually stayed for the whole game but never have I seen a stadium clear out after a game so fast as I saw yesterday! I think everyone made a beeline for heaters to thaw out - sad thing was, it was just 49 degrees out but the wind and the evening sky made it feel soooo much colder. Next up...that other team 93 miles north of us that shall remain nameless but who we hope to beat every single year - GO DAWGS GO beat them rebels!!
What happened to LSU?? Those same rebels we face this week beat LSU 38-13 and this after LSU made a great comeback against Troy last week. I think the eye of the Tiger has closed for the year!
Will Alabama remain #1 after this coming week's game? Auburn has beat them the last 6 years but they aren't playing so well this year. Will they be able to pull an upset and knock off the #1 team in the nation? Time will tell soon...

Roll Tide

2008-11-15T21:31:00.000-08:00

Well, we lost to Bama 32-7 but we played them a much better game than most people thought we would. What I'm disappointed with is...what happened to our receivers? How do you have 10 dropped passes in a game and most of them were right on the money?? We should have had more first downs and possibly a higher score but noooooo, our receivers had to keep dropping the ball!!! Well, the players wanted to play a #1 Alabama on national tv and they got their wish but they also lost miserably to them - Roll Tide! You're looking good for the SEC! Congrats Vandy on being bowl eligible for the first time in 26 years!! How about that LSU game?? WoW! Down 31-3 in the 3rd and came back to win 40-31 - Go Tigers!

Disappointment

2008-11-06T19:22:00.000-08:00

I'm so very very unhappy with my Dawgs right now - I don't understand how we could show so much improvement last season and go to a bowl game and this season just bomb. I get tired of the coaches saying how well we executed this that and the other - just admit that the team played poorly and fix it! This weekend we have a bye week but next week we have to roll into Bryant Stadium and face the current #1 team in the nation, Alabama. We have beaten them the past 2 years and it would be nice to do so again but I just can't see how we can do so with the way we've played this year. Granted, most of our games were either close or improvements (score wise) over last season but still.... I will continue to cheer on my Dawgs - I don't give up on them, even when I'm frustrated. GO DAWGS!!

What happened??

2008-10-18T19:38:00.000-07:00

We played such a good game last week only to get shoved off the mountain by the Tn. Vol. - 34-3. Where were our players? I know that QB Tyson Lee was injured in the first quarter and played injured but what happened to our team? I reckon Tn just wanted the win way more then we did - especially since it was their first SEC win. Next up is Middle Tenn and homecoming at Davis-Wade Stadium. Go Dawgs!!

Overrated??

2008-10-12T22:18:00.000-07:00

I don't think that Vandy is really that overrated, they played a good game but MSU just wanted the win more. Both defenses played tough ball but we came up with big turnovers when we needed them. I think this will be Vandy's year to go to a bowl game - they've worked so hard over the past few years to get to where they are right now. MSU is working just as hard to try to turn our season around - Tyson Lee is working out as QB right now so I hope it continues. GO DAWGS!!

Upset

2008-09-29T04:32:00.001-07:00

So, what did you think of this weekend in football?? Look at all the upsets that occurred.... I guess the 2 that surprised me (SEC games are what I keep up with most) were Ole Miss beating #4 Fla. at The Swamp by 1 pt. and #8 Bama beating #3 Ga. between the hedges 41-30. Guess Bama's coach is finally starting to prove he's worth his money. I hate seeing Ga. lose to Bama - Ga. is my team in the east. How about the match-up in the west between my Dawgs and LSU? Last year, we lost to LSU 45-0. This year we lost 34-24. Our offense played much better this week under the leadership of Tyson Lee - hope he has more time as QB. Our defense had a hard time holding Charles Scott of LSU to short or no gains - he chewed up the yardage! What do you think of Vandy being 5 and 0 now? I just heard that ESPN gameday is going to be broadcasting from the game between Vandy and Auburn and it's the first time Vandy has had gameday broadcast at home.
GO DAWGS!

Very disappointing

2008-09-22T04:28:00.000-07:00

I think the MSU football team forgot to get on the team bus to Ga. Tech and that fans had to fill-in for them. That was an awful game on Sat. Please somebody, either fire Woody McCorvey or get rid of the West Coast Offense - one of them isn't working! We are heading to another losing season after going to a bowl game last year...

Rare and odd

2008-09-17T19:43:00.000-07:00

What a game we had against Auburn! The defense - wow! The offense...what offense??? We sucked BIG time on the offense side of the ball. Somebody tell McCorvey to find a new job!!! It was a rare score - 3 to 2. This has only happened 6 times in football history, the last being in 1965 (yep, that was before I was born). Go Dawgs!

I think....

2008-09-09T18:47:00.001-07:00

We're going to kick some Tiger tail this weekend - they won't know what happened to them. Go Dawgs Go!

AT LAST!!!

2008-09-06T11:48:00.000-07:00

Its home game day and my Dawgs are gonna win the game - GO DAWGS GO!!!!!!

What happened??

2008-09-02T04:47:00.000-07:00

How did my Dawgs lose to La Tech?? It looked like we were going to win but then the momentum shifted and La Tech rolled on to win 22-14. Sadly, we were the first BCS team they beat on their home turf and we are also the only SEC team they play this year. Why does such things always happen to us?????
GO DAWGS!

Big day????? Hmmmm....

2008-08-27T18:19:00.000-07:00

Well, my first day back to TKD was alright but far from satisfying. I was able to do a few kicks in the beginning class but mostly just helped out. I figured I'd be able to do more stuff in my class (advanced) but I was wrong. No one showed up! The instructor was there, I was there, and 1 other person was there...that was it! Nada, nothing....so, we didn't have class. Frustrating, especially since I won't go to TKD every time its offered right now. I'm having to do a lot of hauling of trash and books at one of our branch libraries and feel that on days I do a lot of that, I should skip TKD so that I don't overdo it. Oh well.....football starts this weekend - GO DAWGS!!!

Big day

2008-08-24T19:26:00.000-07:00

I finally get to start back with taekwondo tomorrow nite! I'm all done with physical therapy for my knee but will have some home exercises to do to continue the healing process. I still have a ways to go as I can't run very well yet (learned that this weekend trying to chase my nieces around).
This coming weekend is the start of FOOTBALL season - Mississippi State Style!! GO DAWGS GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wowza!

2008-08-04T19:35:00.000-07:00

The knee is healing very well and faster then it did after surgery 8 years ago! Hopefully it won't be long till I can get back to my martial arts. I'm sooooo restless and ready to kick butt!!

ouch!

2008-07-20T08:58:00.000-07:00

I'm sittin here just a few days after having had arthroscopic knee surgery (2nd in 8 years) and watching video clips of football. Yep, its on my mind (that and the slight pain in my knee now that I have the brace off). Bulldawg football is coming soon!! Go Dawgs Go!

Long time

2008-06-07T18:42:00.000-07:00

WoW! Didn't realize it had been so long since I last post - I must do better!
Spent time out at the Refuge today (Noxubee Refuge) and thoroughly enjoyed myself! Got a little sunburnt sa well. Anyway, here's a pic from the day...click on it to view the large size and get a better view.

Sports

2008-03-26T19:52:00.001-07:00

This weekend (March 29...) is Super Bulldog Weekend - lots of baseball to watch, spring football scrimmage, and good food to eat! Something for everyone to enjoy!
How about MSU basketball this year?? SEC West Champs and made it to the 2nd round of the 'big dance'. GO DAWGS!!!!

I wish it were year-round

2008-02-09T15:18:00.000-08:00

MSU football starts Aug. 30th with La. Tech. Hope the Dawgs do as well or better then this season and get to another bowl game - GO DAWGS!!!

Ok...

2008-02-09T09:57:00.000-08:00

I admit, I was wrong about the Super Bowl but that's ok cause I really didn't care who won the game! I just hate that an old miss player led the Giants to victory....

Super Bowl Predictions

2008-01-31T18:55:00.000-08:00

Patriots will wipe the floor with the Giants and end with a perfect record!

Champs!

2008-01-10T19:01:00.000-08:00

How about those LSU Tigers? National champs again! And how about the SEC?? Winning 7 out of 9 bowl games!!

2007 Liberty Bowl Champs!!

2007-12-31T08:23:00.000-08:00

GO DAWGS GO!!!! UCF 3 - MSU 10! It was a defensive battle that the Dawgs finally managed to win. UCF never got to the red zone but MSU was able to get a TD thanks to the leaping ability of #24 Anthony Dixon. Our record this season is 8-5! We were the first SEC bowl game and the first to win!

Merry Christmas!!

2007-12-20T18:56:00.001-08:00

Hope everyone has a great CHRISTmas and New Year! I know the MSU BullDawgs are as we are going bowlin in Memphis!

Bowl

2007-12-02T19:17:00.000-08:00

Dawgs are Liberty Bowl bound to take on UCF - GO DAWGS GO!!!
Dec. 29 at 3:30pm in Memphis, Tn.

GOT IT

2007-11-23T18:14:00.000-08:00

Check it

2007-11-14T04:41:00.000-08:00

HOW SWEET IT IS!!!

2007-11-11T07:58:00.000-08:00

Oh yeah!! MSU BULLDAWGS BEAT Alabama 17-12 and are now BOWL eligible for the first time in 7 years!!!!!! AWESOME!!!!! We now OWN the state of Alabama - we beat Auburn, UAB, and Bama this year!! GO DAWGS GO!!!!!!!!!!!

UPSET

2007-10-27T15:44:00.001-07:00

GO DAWGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Beat Ky at Ky 31-14....WOOHOO!!!! ONE more win and we are bowl eligible!! GO DAWGS GO!!!!!!

Let's go Dawgs!

2007-10-24T19:03:00.000-07:00

I know WVa scored 31 pts on us in the first quarter BUT once our defense woke up, they scored only 7 pts the rest of the game. Go Defense! Hope they get to work earlier in the game against UK this week as that's another tough game on the road - and I'll be in the stands cheerin on my Dawgs!

They were just a bit too tough

2007-10-14T20:35:00.000-07:00

MSU couldn't quite hang on with Tenn. but did a GREAT job trying!! Tn really had a tough time keeping ahead of us during this game but in the end, the score is all that matters (unfortunately)! The fans stayed in the game throughout the majority of the game but one thing fans did that was WRONG....they should NEVER have booed one of our players. When Michael Henig came out to play for the injured Wesley Carroll (who had a concussion), State fans booed him. For crying out loud....he's playing with a broken hand, cut him some slack!! He didn't expect to play against Tenn. but somebody had to go in for Carroll. I noticed that he played without his protective glove on so his hand was probably even more sore and swollen then had he worn his glove. I say, cheer on the Dawgs no matter what!!! I do grumble when players make bad plays or don't play as well as I think they should but I NEVER boo a player (at least our players). GO DAWGS!!!
How about the LSU/KY game? WoW! Thought LSU was going to go the entire year without getting beat but KY was just too tough for them to handle!

SEC

2007-10-06T21:14:00.000-07:00

is THE league. I mean...what other game can you find the #1 team in the nation playing the defending national champions and be behind the entire game and then win it??!! LSU was behind Fla. the whole game but hung there and won! They will probably remain #1 as USC got beat today!

Homecoming

2007-10-06T19:30:00.001-07:00

Whew! The whole first half wasn't very well played but we took care of business in the second half - beat UAB 30-13! GO DAWGS!!!!
Watching LSU get beat by Fla right now....

I'm sad....

2007-09-29T18:02:00.000-07:00

My Dawgs lost to SC today 38-21. If it weren't for that blocked punt...... I think Spurrier proved today why he's the most hated coach in the SEC. Once again, the game was over, down to 45 sec. and he went for another TD. He just has to put more points up to prove how good he is... Tubberville isn't much better.
http://www.yuwie.com/yuwie.asp?r=78714

Store

2007-09-24T21:01:00.000-07:00

Store

WoW! Did you see...

2007-09-15T19:43:00.001-07:00

the Alabama - Arkansas game??? What a game!!! Arkansas battles back from behind to take the lead but with 8 sec. left in the game, Bama scores and wins - 41-38! Bama is now 3-0 with Nick Saban at the helm....

WHO LET THE DAWGS OUT!!!!

2007-09-15T16:03:00.000-07:00

Our first winning season (so far) in quite a few years. We beat Auburn at Auburn 19-14 and what a finish it was! Auburn had the ball on the 9 yard line, goal to go and couldn't do it!!!!! GO DAWGS!!!!

Makin Waves

2007-09-10T04:39:00.000-07:00

How about that Dawg performance this weekend?? The second half was awesome and showed that the defense was capable of playing an entire game not just the first half! Sorry Tulane but this was our game!!! GO DAWGS!!!!
It was a rather humbling experience to think that we were in the SuperDome where so many people were stuck after Hurricane Katrina. There were tiles still missing on the ceiling (I doubt they'll fix those) and to think that our seats may have been used by some unfortunate person.....WoW!

Awwww....

2007-09-02T13:13:00.000-07:00

No one really expected us to beat LSU but to get shut out by them??? Phooey!!!! 45 - 0!! Oh well, we'll bounce right back and beat Tulane in the Dome next week and then we'll be off to the races!! GO DAWGS!!!!!

Soooo close I can almost hear it

2007-08-26T11:20:00.001-07:00

Only 4.5 days till kickoff and I can hardly wait. I hope we at least give LSU a run for their money - GO DAWGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It's here

2007-08-12T20:06:00.000-07:00

Gameday

Can we do this again??

2007-08-11T11:46:00.000-07:00

2 weeks off

2007-08-02T19:58:00.000-07:00

Whew! Two weeks goes by soooooo fast! I can hardly believe that I've got to go back to work on Monday. Week 1 was spent at the Breaks Interstate Park in Breaks, Va. This is up in the Appalachian Mountains and has some awesome views! I did a little hiking while there and got to see quite a few deer (or maybe the same ones over and over) - I did see my first buck while there! These animals weren't afraid of humans and didn't run away, even when a vehicle pulled up. The first time I went hiking (I went twice), a snake of unknown type crossed the trail in front of me - needless to say, I was busy standing still just in case or I would have taken a picture of it! Week 2 was spent in Birmingham, Al with my sister-in-law and 2 nieces. My brother was in Peru for 3 weeks and got back Tues. night. The girls have sure grown!
I can hardly wait - its now under a month till football season!! GO DAWGS GO!!!

Are you ready for some....

2007-07-21T15:50:00.001-07:00

Coach Croom at the Starkville Public Library

2007-07-12T19:01:00.000-07:00

Coach Sylvester Croom, head football coach at Ms. State University, was the celebrity reader at the Starkville Public Library. He read 2 books to the kids - one book was about the Bulldogs, "Mad for Maroon" by Starkville native, Laurie Parker. The kids all enjoyed him and asked several good questions at the end. I enjoyed it as well!
Here's a video of him reading "Mad for Maroon"

Can't wait...

2007-07-11T19:40:00.001-07:00

Just a bit over a month now till LSU visits us and our football season gets under way! Let's Go BullDAWGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Awww!!!!

2007-06-17T14:32:00.000-07:00

The Dawgs are comin home from Omaha! The Dawgs just couldn't handle the Louisville Cardinals and lost at the College World Series today 11-4. GO DAWGS!!!